Difference Between 22K and 24K Gold

When buying gold in India, you'll hear "22K" and "24K" frequently. Here's what they mean and how they differ.

What Does Karat Mean?

Karat (K) measures gold purity. 24K is the highest—99.9% pure gold. 22K is 91.6% gold, with the rest being alloy metals like copper, silver, or zinc.

| Purity | Gold % | Common Use | |--------|--------|------------| | 24K | 99.9% | Investment, coins | | 22K | 91.6% | Jewellery (most common) | | 18K | 75% | Lightweight jewellery |

Why is 22K Used for Jewellery?

24K gold is soft and prone to scratches. It bends easily. For daily-wear jewellery like rings and chains, 22K provides durability while retaining the classic gold look. The alloy makes it harder without significantly changing appearance.

Price Difference

24K commands a higher price per gram because it has more pure gold. Today, the approximate difference is:

| Type | Price per gram (approx) | |------|-------------------------| | 24K | ₹7,250 | | 22K | ₹6,650 |

Check gold price in Delhi for current city-wise rates.

Which Should You Buy?

For jewellery: 22K is the standard. It's durable and widely accepted.
For investment: 24K coins and bars are preferred. No making charges, easy to resell.
For gifts: Both work; 22K is more common for bridal sets.

Hallmark Certification

BIS hallmark assures purity. Whether 22K or 24K, always look for the hallmark mark to avoid adulteration. It shows the exact purity (e.g., 916 for 22K, 999 for 24K).